A prominent Nigerian legal figure has expressed alarm about a 15 percent tariff imposed on petroleum and diesel imports, suggesting the policy may spark additional inflation and economic difficulties across the country.
Olisa Agbakoba, who previously led the Nigerian Bar Association, questioned why import volumes were surging even as authorities intensified restrictions on authorized trade. The senior advocate posted his concerns through social media, arguing that increased fuel import expenses will inevitably push up costs for basic goods and services, deepening financial pressure on families. He claimed that while government enforcement targets legitimate businesses, illicit refined product shipments continue flowing through Togo, which he identified as a primary gateway for cheap diesel entering Nigeria illegally. This smuggling operation undermines domestic refining capacity and hampers facilities such as the Dangote Petroleum & Petrochemicals plant, according to Agbakoba.
The former bar association chief warned that these circumstances are warping the energy market and deterring investment within Nigeria's borders. He stated that unauthorized imports are gradually eroding employment opportunities, government revenue, and trust in the system.
Olisa Agbakoba, who previously led the Nigerian Bar Association, questioned why import volumes were surging even as authorities intensified restrictions on authorized trade. The senior advocate posted his concerns through social media, arguing that increased fuel import expenses will inevitably push up costs for basic goods and services, deepening financial pressure on families. He claimed that while government enforcement targets legitimate businesses, illicit refined product shipments continue flowing through Togo, which he identified as a primary gateway for cheap diesel entering Nigeria illegally. This smuggling operation undermines domestic refining capacity and hampers facilities such as the Dangote Petroleum & Petrochemicals plant, according to Agbakoba.
The former bar association chief warned that these circumstances are warping the energy market and deterring investment within Nigeria's borders. He stated that unauthorized imports are gradually eroding employment opportunities, government revenue, and trust in the system.
